A NEW scheme to safeguard vulnerable adults in Lancashire has been announced.

The agreement between the county council and the Lancashire Care Association aims to protect people from forced marriage, bullying by their partners or relatives and ‘rogue builders’ preying on vulnerable people.

It comes as social services bosses in Blackburn and Darwen have also announced a new taskforce to stop old and vulnerable people from being abused or neglected.

Bosses said that the signing of a new formal agreement between the county's main agencies would clarify their roles in the sector.

The agreement encompasses issues of professional practice, complaints, and difficulties between people supported and cared for in group living situations.

Dr Margaret Flynn, the chairman of Lancashire's safeguarding adults board, said: “This joint agreement is significant because abuse takes so many forms and it will strengthen our ability to intervene.

“Whether it's forced marriage, people being bullied or beaten-up by their partners or relatives, or others preying on vulnerable people, this agreement will make our roles and responsibilities in safeguarding adults even clearer.

"The agreement will also ensure that the organisations responsible for protecting adults work together effectively.

"But we shouldn't just rely on the official agencies. I would urge everyone to speak out if they know someone is being abused.

"It's important that we all look out for our vulnerable relatives, friends, colleagues and neighbours. Knowing someone well means that we ‘know’ when something is not right."

County Councillor Mike Calvert said: “This agreement will further cement the already excellent working relationships between the organisations working to protect adults from abuse.”

Concerns can be reported to a new safeguarding adults phone number on 0845 053 0028.